Cape Town - The Nyanga Hiking Club celebrated the start of the spring hiking season this weekend after a winter hiatus.
The club celebrates its fourth anniversary this year, since its inception in 2020 by founder and co-ordinator Dani Saporetti.
The initiative, in collaboration with local members of the Nyanga community, aims to teach the transformational power of nature within Nyanga and surrounding township areas.
Since 2020, the club has organised monthly hikes that provide children with essential amenities, snacks and transportation, all at no cost to families.
Saporetti said the initiative was particularly vital in a community where access to natural spaces was limited due to financial constraints and access to recreational facilities.
“I saw a need within Cape Town – primarily township areas like Nyanga East-West, Crossroads and Gugulethu – where learners were far from areas that afforded them recreational spaces,” said Saporetti.
He said it was vital that every child got the opportunity to grow up with the influence of nature.
“I have seen the positive change within the club as the learners are positive about nature and leadership roles,” Saporetti said.
Khaya Mpinda, a Nyanga Hiking Club organiser, said their vision was to expose the youth to nature as a means to deter them from negative influences such as crime and teenage pregnancy.
"Our goal is to take the youth out of the location and create great experiences that add to their development," said Mpinda.
"With around 120 members and growing, the club is not just about hiking; it’s about shaping future leaders" Mpinda said.
The integration of new members, including 63-year-old Mikki Gocini, who hiked for the first time, is testament that nature remains a lifelong teacher. “I have never hiked before in 63 years, but the experience has been wonderful, and I never knew hiking would be so therapeutic,” said Gocini.
“As learners navigate trails together, participants learn not only about the environment but also about the impact of their actions – understanding concepts like littering and community responsibility,” said Saporetti.
With plans to continue enriching hikes until May next year, the Nyanga Hiking Club stands as a beacon of hope within Cape Town.
grecia.mgolombane@inl.co.za
Cape Argus